Submitted by Jo Boyle on Wed, 12/12/2018 - 14:44
I found the trip to the research facility and the fuel fabrication factory in Romania to be a uniquely rewarding and eye-opening experience. We were able to see firsthand the operation of both research reactors on site, take part in experiments, speak to the plant operators and managers, and learn about the reactors’ capabilities. Beyond just the scientific work done, the human element was made evident to us. While at the research facility, we were able to spend time in the reactor control room. We were able to witness the reactor control operators work together to troubleshoot issues that arose when preparing to conduct experiments, giving us a new appreciation for the importance of effective training and on-the-job problem solving.
One other unique aspect of the trip was being able to see the fuel fabrication factory, where the fuel for the two CANDU reactors located in Romania is packed into individual fuel rods, then to fuel assemblies, and packaged for shipment. I gained an appreciation for the quality control assessment at every step of the production process.
